A town built around a natural spring
Boiling Springs, a small college town incorporated in 1911, was built around gurgling springs. Today, the water source is a well-loved feature on Gardner-Webb University campus. "Boiling Springs and Gardner-Webb University have grown over the years. There's a lot of history there," says Theresa Lowes, a county resident and volunteer. The spot was once a gathering place for public forums and picnics. The institution, established in 1905, was originally a faith-based boarding school. "The University started as a high school; it used to be a two-year college. It's been about 55 years since it expanded to a four-year college," Lowes says.
Enjoying local eateries and nights at The Vintage Dog
Most dining and retail are found off Main Street. There are national fast-food places and local eateries, such as the Italian Garden Restaurant. Snack Shop Family Restaurant is an American-style diner serving breakfast staples and burgers. The local bar, The Vintage Dog, has lively events such as karaoke, trivia and bingo. Ingles Markets is the only grocery store in town. The nearest Walmart Supercenter is 10 miles away in Shelby. Locals are about an hour from retail and entertainment destinations in Uptown Charlotte.
Outdoor recreation at Gardner-Webb and the Broad River Greenway
The campus has a free indoor climbing wall for students and faculty; Boiling Springs locals can pay a fee to use the facility. The University also has a disc golf course and the Broyhill Adventure Course. Residents can also attend Runnin' Bulldog sporting events. Paul Porter Arena is home to Gardner-Webb's basketball team. Ernest W. Spangler Stadium is a hot spot for football games. The Broad River Greenway is about 5 miles away. The 1,500-acre public park contains a playground and trails for hikers and equestrians.
Buyers can find older cottages and New Traditional homes
Buyers can find several housing styles and build years in Boiling Springs. The most common are ranch-styles, cottages and New Traditional homes. Many lots contain carports on the side or back of homes. Some more recent and updated houses include attached garages. Homes under 1,250 square feet tend to cost between $150,000 and $275,000. Larger dwellings and 21st-century houses usually enter the market from around $280,000 to $560,000. Almost one-third of residents rent their homes; university students and faculty occupy many of these properties.
Boiling Springs Elementary is No. 1 in the county
Cleveland County Schools provides a form of school choice for students; families can apply on the district's website for an out-of-zone request. Boiling Springs Elementary is the best public school in the county, according to Niche; the elementary earns an A-minus grade from Niche. Crest Middle and Crest High have B-plus grades. The high school offers a Future Farmers of America club and academic courses in agriculture.
Webbstock, a new event in Boiling Springs
Webbstock is a free community event hosted by the local government and Gardner-Webb University. During the festival, older residents can visit the beverage garden at the Broad River Greenway. Boiling Springs also hosts a Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
Driving past the historic Boiling Springs Baptist Church
Boiling Springs Baptist Church has been a town landmark since 1847. The church was one of the first buildings in Boiling Springs. Atrium Health Cleveland is about 11 miles away. Drivers can reach Charlotte in about 55 miles on Highway 74 and Interstate 85.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
